Signalling system

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a signaling system, comprising a crossable zone intended to be positioned on a highway and comprising a signaling marking forming a plurality of signaling strips, said system being characterized in that:The crossable zone comprises a plurality of photovoltaic zones (ZP) comprising photovoltaic cells (Cp) intended to capture light energy in order to convert it into electrical energy;The crossable zone comprises a plurality of signaling zones (ZS), of non-zero areas, so as to form said plurality of signaling strips, each signaling zone (ZS) incorporating electrical lighting means;A control system for controlling said electrical lighting means;At least one storage unit (14) for storing the electrical energy generated by each photovoltaic zone (ZP) and connected to said electrical lighting means in order to supply them with electrical energy.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a National Stage of International Application No.PCT/FR2018/050369 filed on Feb. 15, 2018, which claims priority toFrench Application No. 1751311 filed on Feb. 17, 2017, and FrenchApplication No. 1759200, filed Oct. 2, 2017, the contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a signaling system comprising acrossable zone. Said system notably comprises photovoltaic zones andsignaling zones equipped with lighting means powered by the electricalenergy harvested by virtue of the photovoltaic zones. Said system willpossibly notably consist of a crosswalk system.

PRIOR ART

Markings on highways, i.e. markings such as crosswalks, form an integralpart of modern towns and cities. Conventionally, as shown in FIG. 1, acrosswalk is composed of a plurality of parallel white strips painted onthe highway and placed at regular intervals over all the width of thehighway to be crossed.

These crosswalks must notably be maintained regularly in order to remainvisible to drivers of vehicles. Over time, it is however possible forthe white strips of crosswalks to be damaged and to become increasinglyless contrasted with the rest of the highway, making them less visibleto drivers, when exterior light levels are low or high.

In certain zones, notably in the vicinity of schools, in commercialareas or during events, the multiplication of the number of vehicles onthe highways may require extra safety measures to be taken to allowpedestrians to cross a road safely. In the vicinity of schools, it isfor example a question of employing dedicated personnel to assistchildren in crossing. However, it is not possible to provide personneltwenty-four hours a day and notably at night.

Signs, notably luminous signs, that allow vehicles to be warned of theproximity of a crosswalk do exist. However, their location upstream ofcrosswalks does not necessarily warn the vehicle that it is necessary toslow down. In addition, these signs often need to be supplied withelectricity.

Moreover, patent application US2005/270175A1, patent applicationFR3020645A1 and patent application FR2790060A1 describe varioussignaling solutions, used in the context of crosswalk systems. However,these solutions are often simple devices that are added to conventionalcrosswalks. They are therefore not completely integrated into thehighway infrastructure and thus clutter the zone formed by thecrosswalk, running the risk of distracting drivers approaching thedanger zone.

Generally, there is a need to provide a signaling system for a crossablezone and that:

-   -   Remains visible over the long term, in the particular in the        case of low or high light levels, and even in the absence of        regular maintenance;    -   Allows drivers to be warned in a visible way;    -   Is easy to install and not very bulky;    -   Is able to easily adapt to various types of constraints, notably        constraints on site, light level, etc.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This aim is achieved via a signaling system, comprising a crossable zoneintended to be positioned on a highway and comprising a signalingmarking forming a plurality of signaling strips, said system having thefollowing particularities:

-   -   The crossable zone comprises a plurality of photovoltaic zones        comprising photovoltaic cells intended to capture light energy        in order to convert it into electrical energy;    -   The crossable zone comprises a plurality of signaling zones, of        non-zero areas, so as to form said plurality of signaling        strips, each signaling zone incorporating electrical lighting        means;    -   A control system for controlling said electrical lighting means;    -   At least one storage unit for storing the electrical energy        generated by each photovoltaic zone and connected to said        electrical lighting means in order to supply them with        electrical energy;

The invention notably differs from previous solutions in that thesignaling strips of the marking are formed directly by the signalingzones of the system. It is therefore not a question of having signalingdevices around markings already present on the highway but of directlyforming this marking and the strips via the integration of signalingzones.

According to one particularity of the system:

-   -   Each photovoltaic zone is composed of at least one slab;    -   Each signaling zone is composed of at least one luminous        signaling slab;    -   The slabs forming the photovoltaic zones and the signaling zones        are positioned adjacently and contiguously in order to form a        functional layer throughout said crossable zone.

According to one other particularity, said at least one slab formingeach photovoltaic zone and said at least one slab forming each signalingzone have identical thicknesses.

According to one other particularity, the electrical lighting means of asignaling zone comprise light-emitting diodes.

According to one other particularity, the light-emitting diodes arearranged to delineate the area of the strip to which they belong.

According to one other particularity, the light-emitting diodes areregularly distributed in order to illuminate all the signaling zone.

According to one particular aspect of the invention, the luminoussignaling slab is of integral construction and has a structure made upof a plurality of superposed layers that are fastened to one another,said structure comprising:

-   -   A transparent or translucent first layer forming a front face of        said slab;    -   A luminous assembly comprising a plurality of light-emitting        diodes that are electrically connected to one another;    -   An encapsulating assembly encapsulating said plurality of        light-emitting diodes;    -   A second layer forming a back face of said slab and composed of        a polymer/glass-fiber composite;    -   Said encapsulating assembly being positioned between said first        layer and said second layer.

According to one particularity, each tile of the first layer of the slabis positioned facing at least one light-emitting diode.

According to another particularity, the first layer of the slab is madefrom a polymer chosen from polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate,ethylene tetrafluoroethylene and polyvinylidene fluoride.

According to another particularity, the first layer of the slab has athickness larger than 100 μm, advantageously comprised between 200 μmand 3200 μm and preferably between 400 μm and 750 μm.

According to another particularity, the second layer of the slab has astiffness defined by a Young's modulus at room temperature higher than 1GPa.

According to another particularity, said second layer of the slab has athickness comprised between 0.3 mm and 3 mm.

According to another particularity, the light-emitting diodes areorganized in ribbons deposited on the second layer or on a carrier, orare connected to a printed circuit board.

According to another particularity, said second layer is produced in theform of a printed circuit board to which said light-emitting diodes aredirectly connected.

According to another particularity, the encapsulating assembly is madefrom a material having a Young's modulus at room temperature higher than50 MPa.

According to another particularity, said encapsulating assembly has athickness comprised between 100 μm and 4 mm and advantageously comprisedbetween 250 μm and 1 mm.

According to another particularity, the multilayer structure comprisesat least one intermediate layer, arranged between said first layer andthe encapsulating assembly and configured to join said first layer tothe encapsulating assembly by adhesive bonding.

According to another particularity, said intermediate layer of the slabis made from one or more materials chosen from a polyolefin, rubber,elastomer or epoxy.

According to another particularity, the intermediate layer of the slabis configured to have a Young's modulus at room temperature lower thanor equal to 100 MPa.

According to another particularity, said intermediate layer of the slabhas a thickness comprised between 200 μm and 1600 μm.

According to another particularity, said structure comprises an adhesivelayer located on the back face, making contact with the second layer.

According to another particularity, said structure comprises a treadapplied to said first layer, said tread being non-opaque and having atextured and irregular surface.

According to another particularity, each photovoltaic zone has amultilayer structure.

According to another particularity, said multilayer structure of thephotovoltaic zone comprises at least one transparent layer making itpossible to let a light flux pass and an encapsulating assembly in whichsaid photovoltaic cells are encapsulated.

According to one particular aspect of the invention, the systemcomprises a control and processing unit comprising at least one inputconnected to presence-detecting means and at least one output connectedto said control system for controlling said electrical lighting means.

According to one possible variant embodiment, the presence-detectingmeans comprise at least one infrared camera.

According to another possible variant embodiment, the presence-detectingmeans comprise at least one photoelectric cell.

According to another possible variant embodiment, the presence-detectingmeans comprise at least one inductive sensor.

According to another possible variant embodiment, the presence-detectingmeans comprise at least one piezoelectric sensor positioned under atleast one signaling zone or integrated into said signaling zone.

Certain variant embodiments of the detecting means will possiblyadvantageously be combined together in order to improve theeffectiveness of the system.

According to one particularity, the system comprises a manual controlmember connected to one input of the control and processing unit.

Advantageously, the system comprises means for detecting the arrival ofa vehicle in proximity to the crossable zone, which means are connectedto at least one input of the control and processing unit.

Advantageously, the system comprises a light sensor connected to oneinput of the control and processing unit and in that the control andprocessing unit comprises a module for determining the light intensityof each signaling zone depending on data received from the light sensor.

According to another particularity, the system comprises a commandsequence executed by the control and processing unit depending on datareceived on each input and arranged to determine control signalsintended for the control system.

The command sequence may be implemented in a plurality of differentways, which may be used alone or in combination:

-   -   the command sequence is arranged to command the turn on of the        signaling zones simultaneously;    -   the command sequence is arranged to command the turn on of the        signaling zones sequentially, one signaling zone after another;    -   the command sequence is arranged to command the turn on of the        signaling zones sequentially, one signaling zone after another,        after detection of a presence by said detecting means;    -   the command sequence is arranged to command the turn on of each        signaling zone instantaneously or gradually;    -   the command sequence is arranged to command a turn on of the        signaling zones gradually in one or more colors taking account        of information related to the direction of arrival of a vehicle        and/or the speed of a vehicle.

According to one particular aspect of the invention, the system is acrosswalk system in which said signaling strips are the white strips ofthe crosswalk. In this crosswalk system, two signaling zones formingthese signaling strips are always separated by one photovoltaic zone soas to realize said crosswalk. This structure notably allows a crosswalkto be obtained that will have the same visual appearance as aconventional crosswalk when its signaling zones are turned off and thevisibility of which will be able to be increased, for example in case oflow light levels, by turning on the signaling zones thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Other features and advantages will become apparent in the followingdetailed description that is provided with reference to the appendeddrawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows, as seen from above, a conventional crosswalk;

FIG. 2 schematically shows a signaling system according to theinvention, presented in the form of a crosswalk system;

FIG. 3 schematically shows the photovoltaic zones of the system of theinvention and the electrical architecture employed to store thegenerated electrical energy;

FIG. 4 schematically shows the signaling zones of the system of theinvention and the control architecture employed;

FIG. 5 schematically shows an example of a multilayer structure of aphotovoltaic zone employed in the system of the invention;

FIG. 6 schematically shows an example of a multilayer structure of asignaling zone employed in the system of the invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of possible dimensions of the systemaccording to the invention;

FIGS. 8A to 8C illustrate various command sequences implemented in asignaling system according to the invention, presented in the form of acrosswalk;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a luminous signaling slab able to beemployed in the system of the invention;

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate, via a cross-sectional view, the multilayerstructure of the luminous signaling slab, according to 2 possiblevariant embodiments;

FIGS. 11A and 11B show two possible embodiments of the luminoussignaling slab;

FIG. 12 illustrates, via a cross-sectional view, an example of anarrangement of luminous signaling slabs on a highway;

FIGS. 13A and 13B show two examples of implementation of said luminoussignaling slabs, employed in the system of the invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AT LEAST ONE EMBODIMENT

The invention relates to a signaling system.

A crossable zone consists of a zone over which it is possible to drive,notably in a vehicle, cycle on a bicycle or walk on foot. Such acrossable zone notably comprises a signaling marking. Conventionally, itis a question of one or more signaling strips possibly forming crosswalkstrips, a continuous or discontinuous white line in the middle of thehighway, stopping places for vehicles, for example chevrons or zigzagsfor bus stops, etc.

The invention consists in producing this type of signaling markingdynamically and therefore of obtaining a complete signaling system.

Nonlimitingly, FIG. 1 shows a signaling marking for a conventionalcrosswalk PP′. It typically comprises a plurality of identical whitestrips 10′ of regulated dimensions and that are spaced apart from oneanother by a set distance. They are arranged parallel to one another andtheir longitudinal direction is oriented in the direction of vehiculartraffic on the highway to 12′. They are distributed over the entirewidth of the highway from one sidewalk T1 to the other T2 (if of coursesidewalks are present). A white line 11′ (dashed in FIG. 1) allows thetwo lanes of the highway and the two directions of vehicular traffic tobe delineated.

The invention notably aims to provide a way of functionalizing this typeof crosswalk and generally any highway infrastructure of this type, ableto use a signaling marking. In the rest of the description, theinfrastructure described relates to a crosswalk system but it will beunderstood that the described features may be applied to any other typeof known signaling marking, such as those already described above.

Thus, the crosswalk system notably has two main aspects. It is providedwith lighting means, allowing it to remain visible, even in the case ofhigh or low light levels and is self-sufficient in electrical energy,i.e. there is no need to connect its lighting means to the electricalgrid since it is self-powered. Advantageously, any surplus generatedelectricity will possibly be fed into the electrical grid R. The systemthen comprises specific means for ensuring a transfer of the generatedelectrical energy to the electrical grid R, for example but not solelywhen the storage unit belonging to the system is full. It will forexample also be a question of being able to employ the photovoltaiczones ZP to feed electrical energy into the grid R when the latterrequires additional capacity, whether the electric storage unit is fullor not.

Such a crosswalk system 1 notably comprises a defined crossable zoneover which vehicles may drive and on which pedestrians may cross. Thiscrossable zone is composed of a functional layer advantageously made upof a plurality of portions, which layer is deposited on a lower layer,typically a base course or directly on the road surface (an asphalt) ofthe highway. In the first case, it will possibly be necessary to form acutout with the dimensions of the crossable zone. In the second case,since the functional layer is of very small thickness, for example ofthickness smaller than 10 mm, it places no constraints on the movementsof vehicles or pedestrians.

The functional layer differs from a standard road surface deposited onthe base course in that it allows the highway to be functionalized andprovides it with interacting means, notably visual interacting means,that are controlled based on information received by defined detectingmeans, which are described below.

According to one aspect of the invention, the crossable zone of thecrosswalk system of the invention advantageously consists solely of:

-   -   Photovoltaic zones ZP;    -   Signaling zones ZS;

With reference to FIG. 2, the photovoltaic zones ZP and the signalingzones ZS are advantageously placed beside one another in order to formthe entirety of the crossable zone and to form a crosswalk having thesame visual appearance as a conventional crosswalk (such as shown inFIG. 1). The signaling zones ZS are preferably produced in the form ofrectangular strips of regulated dimensions (width of 0.50 m, length Lcomprised between 2.5 m and 6 meters) that are spaced apart from oneanother by darker rectangular strips of a normalized size (comprisedbetween 0.50 m and 0.80 m.), forming the photovoltaic zones ZP. Theaforementioned dimensions are given by way of example and of course maychange depending on the laws in force.

The crossable zone thus formed is positioned in the continuity of theconventional highway, with no transition. Its particularly smallthickness allows it in any case to be at a similar level to that of theroad surface of the highway located upstream and downstream. Of course,since certain crossways are elevated, it would be possible to suitablyraise it with respect to the level of the road surface of the highwaylocated upstream and downstream.

According to one aspect of the invention, each photovoltaic zone ZP willfor example be formed from one or more slabs of identical dimensionspositioned adjacently and contiguously in order to cover all thephotovoltaic zone. Likewise, each signaling zone ZS will possibly beformed from one or more slabs of identical dimensions positionedadjacently and contiguously in order to cover all the signaling zone.

The slabs of the signaling zones and the slabs of the photovoltaic zonesare advantageously positioned adjacently and contiguously in order toform the entirety of the area of the functional layer of the system ofthe invention.

The photovoltaic slabs and the luminous slabs of the signaling zones areadvantageously of an identical thickness in order to allow easyinstallation of the crossable zone.

According to one aspect of the invention, the dark strips that separatethe signaling zones are therefore advantageously formed by thephotovoltaic zones ZP. These dark strips are advantageously of a lengthL identical to that used for the strips of the signaling zones and havea width that is for example larger than those of the strips of thesignaling zones, for example ranging from 0.70 m to 1 m. Of course, thephotovoltaic zones ZP could be positioned on other portions of thehighway. However, it is particularly advantageous to group thephotovoltaic zones and the signaling zones together in a definedperimeter, in order to create a single functional layer within thisperimeter. By way of example, each photovoltaic zone having dimensionsof 2.8 m×0.7 m has a power of 240 W peak.

With reference to FIG. 2, there is therefore an alternation between thephotovoltaic zones ZP and the signaling zones ZS. Depending on the widthof the highway (between the two sidewalks T1 and T2), there will thus bea plurality of signaling zones ZS and a plurality of photovoltaic zonesZP placed in alternation, advantageously over all the width of thehighway. Advantageously, each photovoltaic zone ZP or the slabs thatcompose it and each signaling zone or the slabs that compose it, areproduced in the form of elements of integral construction that it ispossible to place directly on the base course. Only the electricalconnections are then to be made to the various units of the system.

According to one particularly advantageous aspect of the invention, thephotovoltaic zones are dimensioned in a such a way as to make themsuitable for powering all the signaling zones. Each photovoltaic zonewill for example be dimensioned to ensure it is able to power at leastone signaling zone. In this way, whatever the width of the highway, itwill be possible to be sure that all the signaling zones will be able tobe supplied with sufficient electrical energy. An example of possibledimensions will notably be described below with reference to FIG. 7.

According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, theelectrical cabling will also be facilitated because the photovoltaiczones in the signaling zones will be able to be arranged to share thesame cable runs.

More precisely, the photovoltaic zones ZP each comprise photovoltaiccells intended to convert light energy into electrical energy. Thephotovoltaic cells Cp are connected to one another using a conventionaltopology such as found in a photovoltaic module. By way of nonlimitingexample, with reference to FIG. 3, the photovoltaic architecture thatincludes the photovoltaic zones has the following particularities:

-   -   Each photovoltaic zone ZP comprises a plurality of rows of        photovoltaic cells Cp, which are connected in series and/or in        parallel;    -   A converter 12 (here a DC/DC converter) is advantageously        connected to all of the photovoltaic zones ZP in order to ensure        an electrical conversion to an electrical energy storage unit 14        through a battery charger 13;    -   Control means, optionally integrated into the converter, are        able to control the converter so as to perform the voltage        conversion;    -   Each photovoltaic zone advantageously includes what are called        bypass diodes (not shown), each for bypassing a row of separate        cells of a zone if a cell in this row were to be faulty;

The converter 12 will possibly be housed in a cavity produced in thehighway and closed by a trapdoor or in an electrical cabinet positionedin proximity to the produced functional layer.

According to one aspect of the invention, the crosswalk system alsocomprises an electrical energy storage unit 14, intended to store theelectrical energy generated by the photovoltaic cells of thephotovoltaic zones. This electrical energy storage unit 14 for examplecomprises one or more batteries. The battery charger 13 and theconverter 12 that were described above are controlled in order to ensurethe charge of the electrical energy storage unit 14 with the electricalenergy generated by the photovoltaic zones ZP. The electrical energystored in this electrical energy storage unit 14 will be employed topower:

-   -   The lighting means of the signaling zones ZS, i.e. the        light-emitting diodes;    -   A control and processing unit 15, via a power module AUK    -   Various detecting means mentioned below, unless the latter are        self-powered;    -   Optionally the control unit of the converter 12 if it is        present;    -   Any other detection solution or sensor requiring an electrical        power supply;

Advantageously, for example when the storage unit 14 is full, anysurplus electricity generated by the photovoltaic zones ZP will possiblybe transferred to the electrical grid R, the latter then becoming anextension of the storage unit 14. However, the transfer of electricityto the grid R will possibly be carried out at any moment, notably in thecase where additional capacity is required by the electrical grid. Thephotovoltaic zones ZP will then possibly also be employed to this end.Likewise, in the case where the grid R requires additional capacity, itwill be possible to act so as to discharge the electrical energy storageunit of the system. The system will therefore be able to function in asetup of “Smart Grid” type.

Nonlimitingly, each photovoltaic zone ZP has a structure such as thatdescribed in the two patent applications Nos WO2016/16165A1 andWO2016/16170A1 and shown in FIG. 5. This structure of the photovoltaiczone will advantageously be semi-rigid, i.e. have a degree of flexuraldeformability able to range up to 30% with respect to the initial shape.

Without going into detail, this structure comprises a first layer 200that is transparent through all its thickness so as to let a light fluxpass. By the term “transparent”, what is meant is that the materialforming the first layer is at least partially transparent to visiblelight.

The first layer 400 will for example be produced in the form of a singletile or of a plurality of juxtaposed tiles. It will for example be madefrom a transparent polymer, such as for example polymethyl methacrylate(PMMA) or polycarbonate.

The structure of the photovoltaic zone comprises an encapsulatingassembly in which the photovoltaic cells are encapsulated. Thisencapsulating assembly preferably consists of two layers 402 a, 402 b ofencapsulating material, between which the photovoltaic cells areencapsulated. A laminating operation is implemented in order to fuse thetwo encapsulating layers 402 a, 402 b into a single layer in which thephotovoltaic cells 401 are embedded. The manufacturing process isdetailed in the two aforementioned patent applications. Since saidprocess does not form part of the invention, it is not described indetail in the present patent application.

By the employed term “encapsulating” or “encapsulated”, what must beunderstood is that the photovoltaic cells 401 are housed in a preferablyhermetic volume formed by joining the two layers of the assembly.

The structure of the photovoltaic zone comprises a second layer 403forming its back face. The encapsulating assembly is positioned betweenthe first layer 400 and this second layer 403. This second layer 403will for example be made from a composite, for example apolymer/glass-fiber composite.

The structure of the photovoltaic zone advantageously comprises anintermediate layer 404, called the “damping” layer, which is locatedbetween the first layer 400 and the upper layer 402 a of theencapsulating assembly (402 a, 402 b) and which allows the first layer400 to be joined to the encapsulating assembly, notably by adhesivebonding.

The structure of the photovoltaic zone advantageously comprises anadhesive layer (not shown) located between the encapsulating assemblyand the second layer 403. This layer will serve to join the second layer403 to the encapsulating assembly, notably by adhesive bonding.

The first layer will advantageously be formed or covered with a tread soas to have an external surface equipped with adherence properties thatare sufficient and suitable both for the passage of pedestrians and forthe passage of vehicles. It will for example be a question of giving theexternal surface a certain degree of roughness.

The photovoltaic cells Cp will advantageously be positioned on a layerof dark color (of black or blue color for example) so as to provide asufficient contrast, through the transparent layer 200, with respect tothe signaling zones.

With reference to FIG. 4, the signaling zones ZS each comprise lightingmeans, at least partially consisting of light-emitting diodes Ds. Thelight-emitting diodes Ds will possibly advantageously emit in differentcolors. Converting means will possibly advantageously be employed toemit in a hue close to white, corresponding to the color of the stripsof a crosswalk. A given signaling zone ZS will possibly however emitlight signals of a plurality of colors (either by employinglight-emitting diodes with the desired colors or suitable convertingmeans). By way of example, the lighting means of the signaling zones ZSwill allow a luminance coefficient having a minimum value of 130mcd/m2/Ix to be achieved.

Nonlimitingly and with reference to FIG. 6, each signaling zone ZS has asimilar structure to that of a photovoltaic zone, the light-emittingdiodes Ds replacing the photovoltaic cells. This structure thuscomprises a first layer 300 that is transparent throughout its thicknessso as to let a light flux generated by the light-emitting diodes pass.This first layer 300 will for example be produced in the form of asingle tile or of a plurality of juxtaposed tiles. It will for examplebe made from a transparent polymer, such as for example polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

The structure of the signaling zone comprises an encapsulating assemblyor wrapping 302 in which the light-emitting diodes are encapsulated. Inthis assembly, the light-emitting diodes are advantageously fastened toa layer of material of light color (for example of white color) in orderto accentuate the contrast with the photovoltaic zones ZP.

The light-emitting diodes Ds will advantageously be joined to a carriertaking the form of a ribbon (301—FIG. 4) or of an optimized printedcircuit board. Nonlimitingly, each ribbon 301 for example takes the formof a printed circuit board made from a flexible or rigid material. Thisprinted circuit board may form the back layer of the slab.

In the signaling zone ZS, the light-emitting diodes Ds are arranged togenerate sufficient lighting to allow the zone to always be seenwhatever the ambient light level. Nonlimitingly, a plurality ofpositional variants may be proposed:

-   -   A first variant consists in placing the light-emitting diodes on        the outline of the zone in order to delineate said outline. It        will then for example be a question of placing ribbons 301 of        diodes along the two lengths and the two widths of the zone. The        interior of the zone, delineated by the light-emitting diodes,        will remain in a white hue and without diode.    -   A second variant consists in covering most of the signaling zone        ZS. It will for example be a question of placing a plurality of        ribbons in parallel (as in FIG. 4), each ribbon 301 being the        width or the length of the strip formed by the signaling zone,        so as to cover all the signaling zone ZS;    -   A third variant for example consists in placing the        light-emitting diodes so as to be able to display a particular        message when they are turned on. It will then be a question of        forming letters or a particular symbol by turning on the diodes        of the ribbons 301;    -   A fourth variant is suitable for elevated crosswalks. In this        configuration, ribbons of light-emitting diodes are for example        positioned on the outline of the signaling zones and notably on        the inclined lateral portions allowing the elevation;

The first layer 300 of the signaling zone will advantageously be formedor covered with a tread in order to also have an external surfaceequipped with adherence properties that are sufficient and suitable bothfor the passage of pedestrians and for the passage of vehicles. It willfor example be a question of giving the external surface a certaindegree of roughness. The adherence properties of the photovoltaic zonesZP and of the signaling zones ZS will advantageously be similar. Oneparticular and advantageous architecture of a luminous signaling slab isalso described below with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12.

The system of the invention also comprises a control and processing unit15. This control and processing unit 15 is for example formed of aprogrammable logic controller comprising a central unit module UC and aplurality of input/output modules, below called inputs and outputs(referenced IN and OUT in FIG. 2) of the control and processing unit 15.The central unit module UC advantageously comprises a microprocessor anda memory. This control and processing unit 15 also comprises a powermodule ALIM that receives electrical power from the electrical energystorage unit. The control and processing unit 15 will possibly alsocomprise a communication module COM allowing the controller to connectto a (wired or wireless) communication network in order to gather anytype of information, such as updates, statistics, etc. It will possiblyalso be a question of connecting a plurality of systems together, forexample within a given town or city, via a communication network, inorder to share information.

With reference to FIG. 4, the system also comprises a control system forcontrolling the lighting means of the signaling zones. This controlsystem is advantageously made up of a plurality of drivers (16) that areeach associated with one or more light-emitting diodes, and preferablywith at least one ribbon of light-emitting diodes or with all theribbons of a given signaling zone, in order to command them to turn on,to turn off and/or their brightness, etc. The drivers 16 of the controlsystem are advantageously integrated into the signaling zones ZS and arelocated as close as possible to the controlled light-emitting diodes.They are connected to one or more outputs (OUT) of the control andprocessing unit 15 in order to receive control signals (for examplepulse-width modulated (PWM) control signals) suitable for the commandsequence executed by the control and processing unit 15.

The system also comprises presence-detecting means that are connected toone or more inputs of the control and processing unit. Thesepresents-detecting means are intended to detect the presence of one ormore pedestrians about to cross the crosswalk.

With reference to FIG. 2, a plurality of variants (indicated by dashedlines in FIG. 2) of these presence-detecting means may be implemented,either alone or in combination:

-   -   An infrared camera 17, for example positioned at the top of a        pole and pointing in the direction of the crosswalk, in order to        detect a presence. This solution has the advantage of working        even in the case of low light levels. A camera will for example        be placed on each sidewalk T1, T2 in the vicinity of the        highway.    -   a solution based on a photoelectric cell or on a plurality of        photoelectric cells, which are for example arranged in the form        of a light gate 18 generating a light beam (represented by a        dashed line in FIG. 2) between an emitter and a receiver. This        solution will ideally be placed on the edge of the highway, just        upstream of the crosswalk. This solution will advantageously be        integrated into the urban furniture, for example in the bollards        conventionally positioned on the two opposite sidewalks T1, T2.    -   A piezoelectric solution comprising one or more piezoelectric        sensors 22 positioned under the signaling zones and/or under the        photovoltaic zones. They will possibly also be integrated into        the signaling zones, into the tactile paving slabs that are        sometimes positioned in the vicinity of crosswalks, or in the        photovoltaic zones, and for example housed in the encapsulating        assemblies encapsulating the photovoltaic cells or the        light-emitting diodes.

In FIG. 2 it must of course be understood that certain detecting meansare optional and that all thereof will not necessarily be employed in agiven system.

Moreover, optionally, the system will also comprise at least one manualcontrol member 19 (and preferably two manual control members, located onthe two opposite sidewalks T1, T2) connected to an input of the controland processing unit and intended to manually actuate the system, i.e. toactivate the signaling zones ZS in a set command sequence (see below).

Optionally, the system will also possibly comprise means for detectingthe arrival of a vehicle in proximity to the crossable zone, which meansare connected to at least one input of the control and processing unit.These detecting means for example comprise an inductive measurement loop20 formed on each lane of the highway, upstream of the crosswalk, thusallowing the direction of arrival of a vehicle to be indicated. Anyother detecting means of this type could be envisioned, for example alaser measurement, allowing in addition the speed of the vehicle to bedetermined. Each loop will necessarily be positioned sufficientlyupstream of the crosswalk to allow a pedestrian who is about to cross toreceive the information satisfactorily. It will notably be a question oftaking account of the speed limit in force around the crosswalk (for aspeed limit of 30 km/h and with a view to ensuring a warning period of 5s between the moment at which the automobile is detected and the momentat which it should reach the crosswalk, the detecting means willnecessarily be positioned at a distance D of 41.50 meters with respectto the crosswalk).

Optionally, the system may also comprise a light sensor 21, intended todetermine the light level in the vicinity of the crosswalk.Nonlimitingly, this sensor will for example be integrated into thecrossable zone of the crosswalk, or positioned on the electrical cabinetthat contains the electrical managing apparatuses of the system, or onthe pole that bears the infrared camera.

These various options will advantageously be powered with the electricalenergy stored in the electrical energy storage unit 14. However, it mustalso be understood that all the aforementioned sensors will possiblyalso be self-powered, for example incorporating an energy generator ofany type (piezoelectric, photovoltaic, electromagnetic, thermal, etc.).Moreover, certain of the sensors will advantageously be wireless. Thelink with the control and processing unit 15 will then be achieved via awireless communication network, for example a Zigbee network in order tolimit the energy consumption of the sensor.

When the control and processing unit 15 receives a signal on one or moreof its inputs, it activates the lighting of the signaling zones of thesystem by sending suitable control signals to the control system forcontrolling the light-emitting diodes Ds.

According to one particular aspect of the invention, the control andprocessing unit 15 implements a command sequence to command thesignaling zones.

Depending on which of the various detection solutions described aboveare present, various command sequences will possibly be envisioned. Itwill be noted that the control and processing unit 15 will possiblyadvantageously store, in its memory, a plurality of distinct sequences,the choice of the sequence to be executed depending on the data madeavailable on its inputs, and/or on information received on its inputsfrom the various sensors.

FIGS. 8A to 8C show certain possible command sequences. In thesefigures, the color gray indicates that the signaling zones are turnedoff and the color white indicates that the zones are turned on. Thecommand sequence executed by the control and processing unit will thuspossibly command the signaling zones ZS to turn on in the variousfollowing modes, which may be implemented alone or in combination:

-   -   Each signaling zone is commanded to turn on        instantaneously—Sequence S1, FIG. 8A;    -   Each signaling zone is commanded to turn on gradually;    -   All the signaling zones are commanded to turn on at the same        time—Sequence S1, FIG. 8A;    -   The signaling zones are commanded to turn on one after another,        for example taking account of the advance of the pedestrian        (either via a pre-recorded delay depending on the average speed        of a pedestrian, or taking account of information received by        piezoelectric sensors positioned in the zones or taking account        of any other information obtained by any other means)—Sequence        S2, FIG. 8B;    -   The signaling zones are commanded to turn on variably throughout        the day or on each crossing, in order to take account of        variations in light level;    -   The signaling zones are commanded to turn on variably, certain        light-emitting diodes of a signaling zone or a plurality of        signaling zones being activated. It will for example be a        question of maintaining a minimum brightness when light levels        are low and of gradually increasing the number of light-emitting        diodes activated in order to take account of the increasing,        light level in order to ensure the signaling zones always remain        clearly visible;    -   Diodes are commanded to turn on so as to display a particular        message, for example related to the imminent arrival of a        vehicle;    -   Diodes are commanded to turn on in a targeted way, for example        in a gradual way depending on the direction of arrival of a        vehicle on the crosswalk, which is detected by virtue of the        sensors 20. In case of danger, it will for example be a question        of commanding light of red color—Sequence S3, FIG. 8C;

Example Embodiment and Dimensions

Nonlimitingly, with reference to FIG. 7, the system of the inventioncomprising an alternation of photovoltaic zones and of signaling zonesfor example has the following characteristics:

-   -   Five signaling zones ZS and six photovoltaic zones ZP;    -   Front-face lighting density without diffuser:        -   One signaling zone ZS: width I1; 0.5 m×length L 2.8 m;        -   Ribbons 301 of aligned light-emitting diodes, cut to the            desired length (density of thirty light-emitting diodes Ds            per meter of ribbon) and laid out in the direction of the            length of the zone, the ribbons being spaced apart by a            constant pitch of 3.3 cm in the direction of the width of            the zone;        -   Thirteen ribbons 301 of 2.5 m length per signaling zone ZS;    -   Lighting power:        -   Manufacturing datum: 2.4 W/m        -   Power of a signaling zone at maximum brightness:            2.4×2.6×13=81 W/zone        -   Namely a total power of: 5×81=405 W for all of the five            signaling zones;    -   Available photovoltaic power:        -   Six photovoltaic zones of width I2 0.7 m×length L 2.8 m        -   Photovoltaic power: 240 Wp/zone            Total Power: 1440 Wp    -   Dimensions of the battery (electrical energy storage unit 14):        -   1 h/day at 100%            500 Wh/day        -   Sought-after self-sufficiency without sunlight: 3 days            1500 Wh under 12V            125 Ah        -   Installed batteries: 2 times 90 Ah i.e. 180 Ah i.e. a little            more than four days of self-sufficiency.

It will be understood from the above that the system of the inventionhas a certain number of advantages, among which:

-   -   An easy installation, the photovoltaic zones and the signaling        zones advantageously taking the form of slabs to be juxtaposed;    -   Self-sufficiency in electrical energy, permitted by the use of        the photovoltaic zones;    -   Different solutions with respect to the animation of the        signaling zones, which allow account to be taken of various        operating conditions and various situations;    -   A non-negligible decrease in bulk, the signaling zones and the        photovoltaic zones intended to supply them with power being        produced directly in the crossable zone;

As described above, the signaling system, such as for example thecrosswalk system described above, may employ one or more luminoussignaling slabs. One particular luminous-signaling-slab architecture isdescribed below with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12.

As described above, one luminous signaling slab (it could also be calleda lighting slab 2) is for example employed to produce each signalingzone of the crossable zone of the system of the invention describedabove. One or more luminous signaling slabs are thus suitably positionedto define at least one luminous marking in the crossable zone when theirluminous assemblies are activated. Such slabs 2 will possibly bepositioned continuously or be separated from one another, depending onthe marking or the lighting element of the system to be produced.

In the rest of the description, the terms “front”, “back”, “upper”,“lower”, “top”, “bottom” or other equivalent terms are to be consideredwith respect to an axis (A) that will be defined as perpendicular to theplane formed by a slab (vertical axis in the plane of the paper in theappended figures).

The luminous signaling slab 2 may be positioned so as to at leastpartially cover the surface of a base layer 1, this base layer 1possibly for example being the existing highway or a lower layerthereof, after removal of the driving surface. This base layer 1 is forexample composed of a base course. Of course, since this base layer 1does not form part of the luminous signaling slab, any other multilayeror monolayer structure may be envisioned. This base layer 1 may formpart of the complete piece of infrastructure that will be describedbelow.

With reference to FIG. 9, a luminous signaling slab 2 of the invention,having an advantageous architecture, comprises the features describedbelow.

Specifically, the luminous signaling slab 2 of the invention takes theform of an element of integral construction, i.e. an element that formsa single part. It advantageously has a first face, called the upper faceF1, which is intended to form its external face, and a lower face F2opposite and preferably parallel to the upper face. Between its twofaces, the slab comprises a plurality of layers. The slab 2 may have anoutline of any possible shape depending on its application. The slab maynotably be a rectangular or square shape, and for example of dimensionsequal to 20 cm×20 cm. Of course, depending on the type of signaling tobe performed, it may have other dimensions. By way of example andnonlimitingly, it may be of 0.1 m by 1.5 m or 0.1 m×3 m in anapplication to a discontinuous line on a highway, or 0.5 m×1.2 m or 0.5m×2.4 m in the case of an application to a crosswalk.

With reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B, from front to back, each luminoussignaling slab 2 may comprise a multilayer structure such as describedbelow. Certain layers described below may be optional.

“Front” First Layer

The first layer 200 comprises one or more juxtaposed transparent filmsor tiles. Production from a plurality of juxtaposed films or tiles makesit possible to manage the stresses due to thermal expansion during theuse of the slab outside. Since the expansion is proportional to thedimensions of this first layer, using tiles of suitable dimensions makesit possible to accommodate thermal stresses and to avoid the appearanceof effects such as delamination or deformation.

The first layer 200 is made from a transparent or translucent materialso as to let a light flux pass.

By the term “transparent”, what is meant is that the material formingthe first layer is at least partially transparent to visible light, forexample letting pass at least 80% of visible light.

By the term “translucent”, what is meant is that the material formingthe first layer allows diffuse transmission of visible light.

Moreover, the first layer may be tinted any color, depending on thetargeted application.

The first layer 200 may be made from a polymer chosen from polycarbonate(PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene(ETFE) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Advantageously, it is aquestion of polycarbonate.

The first layer 200 may have a thickness larger than 100 μm andadvantageously comprised between 200 μm and 3200 μm and preferablybetween 400 μm and 750 μm.

Nonlimitingly, the first layer 200 is composed of a film of polishedpolycarbonate, treated against ultraviolet rays and of a thickness of450 μm.

Each tile of the first layer 200 may be positioned facing one or morelight-emitting diodes Ds of the luminous assembly described below.

Luminous Assembly

The luminous assembly 201 is composed of a plurality of light-emittingdiodes Ds that are connected in series and/or parallel.

The light-emitting diodes Ds may emit in different colors.

Converting means may be employed in order to emit in a desired hue.

A given luminous signaling slab 2 may emit light signals of a pluralityof colors (either by employing light-emitting diodes with the desiredcolors or suitable converting means).

Depending on the desired light density, the light-emitting diodes Ds maybe spaced apart by a distance ranging from 0.5 cm to 30 cm andpreferably by a distance comprised between 0.6 cm and 15 cm.

The light-emitting diodes Ds may be joined into ribbons that aredeposited on a carrier or connected to a carrier (printed circuit board)allowing the diodes to be powered and for example comprising conductiveribbons on epoxy or Kapton, to which ribbons the light-emitting diodesDs are connected.

In a given ribbon, the diodes Ds may be spaced apart by a pitchcomprised between 0.5 cm and 10 cm and preferably comprised between 1 cmand 3 cm. The inter-ribbon distance may be comprised between 1 cm and 30cm and preferably comprised between 2 cm and 15 cm.

This carrier of the light-emitting diodes may complete the “back” secondlayer 203 described below or replace this layer.

The carrier may have a thickness comprised between 0.1 mm and 5 mm,advantageously comprised between 0.1 mm and 2 mm, and ideally comprisedbetween 0.15 mm and 1.5 mm.

Control means for controlling the light emission of the diodes Ds, whichmeans are located in the slab and/or centralized in an external cabinet,are of course provided in order to control the luminous assembly 201 ina way suitable for the signaling to be performed. These control meansmay comprise a programmable logic controller comprising inputs/outputs.The controller may receive information coming from various sensors onits inputs and suitably control the luminous signaling slabs connectedto its outputs.

Advantageously, the spacing between two neighboring tiles of the firstlayer 200 is smaller than or equal to the spacing between twoneighboring light-emitting diodes Ds. Thus, at least each tile of thefirst layer 200 is placed facing at least one light-emitting diode Ds.

Encapsulating Assembly

The structure comprises an encapsulating assembly or wrapping in whichthe luminous assembly that comprises the light-emitting diodes Ds isencapsulated.

By the employed term “encapsulating” or “encapsulated”, what must beunderstood is that the light-emitting diodes Ds are housed in apreferably hermetic volume.

It allows the space present between the light-emitting diodes Ds of theluminous assembly 201 to be filled.

The encapsulating assembly may comprise an upper portion 202 a andoptionally a lower portion 202 b.

The upper portion 202 a is positioned between the first layer 200 andthe luminous assembly 201.

The upper portion 202 a forms a shell-like mechanical protection on theluminous assembly.

The upper portion 202 a may have a stiffness level expressed by aYoung's modulus at room temperature higher than 50 MPa.

Advantageously, the upper portion 202 a of the encapsulating assembly ismade from an ionomer having a Young's modulus higher than 300 MPa.

In one particular embodiment, the lower portion 202 b of theencapsulating assembly is located between the luminous assembly 201 andthe second layer 203 described below.

The lower portion 202 b forms a mechanical protection and a barrier towater or moisture liable to rise from below the slab.

The lower portion 202 b may have a stiffness level expressed by aYoung's modulus at room temperature higher than 50 MPa.

Advantageously, the lower portion 202 a of the encapsulating assembly ismade from an ionomer having a Young's modulus higher than 300 MPa.

Each element produced in film form intended to form the upper portionand optionally the lower portion of the encapsulating assembly may havea thickness comprised between 0.1 mm and 2 mm, and ideally comprisedbetween 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm.

Considered as a whole (one or two layers), said encapsulating assemblymay have a thickness comprised between 100 μm and 4 mm andadvantageously comprised between 250 μm and 1 mm.

“Back” Second Layer

The second layer 203 forms the lower layer of the structure and is thecarrier of the luminous signaling slab 2.

This second layer 203 is made from a material intended to providemechanical protection against crushing of the electronic circuits of theluminous assembly 201 from behind when the luminous signaling slab 2 issubjected to a substantial mechanical load.

The second layer 203 may have a stiffness expressed by a Young's modulusat room temperature higher than 1 GPa, advantageously higher than orequal to 3 GPa, and ideally higher than 10 GPa.

The second layer 203 is however sufficiently flexible to accommodatedeformations of the base layer 1 of the highway.

The second layer is sufficiently flexible to conform to deformations inthe highway (embossments or recesses of 1 cm every 20 cm, advantageouslyembossments or recesses of 0.5 cm every 20 cm, ideally embossments orrecesses of 0.2 cm every 20 cm).

The second layer 203 may be made from a transparent or opaque andoptionally tinted material, for example a material tinted in its bulk orthe surface of which is tinted notably to define a pattern.

The second layer 203 may have a thickness comprised between 0.1 mm and10 mm, advantageously comprised between 0.4 mm and 5 mm, andadvantageously comprised between 1 mm and 3 mm.

The second layer 203 may be made from a polymer, from apolymer/glass-fiber composite or from a thermoset, such as aphenol-formaldehyde resin.

Nonlimitingly, the second layer 203 may be composed of apolymer/glass-fiber composite such as a fabric based on polyethyleneterephthalate, propylene or polyepoxide and glass fibers with aglass-fiber content for example comprised between 20% and 70% by weight.

This second layer 203 may have a thermal expansion coefficient lowerthan or equal to 20 ppm, and preferably lower than or equal to 10 ppm.

According to another variant embodiment, this second layer 203 may beproduced in the form of a printed circuit board to which thelight-emitting diodes Ds are directly connected. This back layertherefore plays the role of carrier for the light-emitting diodes andprotects them from the back side. Only the upper layer of theencapsulating assembly will then possibly be necessary. FIG. 10Billustrates such an architecture, in which the back layer 203 directlyplays the role of carrier of the light-emitting diodes Ds. The backlayer 203 may then be a printed circuit board. The protective layer 202a is present in order to protect the light-emitting diodes from thefront side and the back layer 203 protects them from the back side. Theother layers of the structure are for example identical.

Protective and Compatibility Layers

The structure may comprise a plurality of protective and compatibilitylayers, which layers are called intermediate layers.

In one embodiment, the structure may comprise a first intermediate layer204 positioned between the first layer 200 and the upper portion 202 aof the encapsulating assembly.

The structure may also comprise a second intermediate layer (not shown)positioned between the second layer 203 and the lower portion 202 b ofthe encapsulating assembly.

Each of these intermediate layers may be necessary in case of chemicalincompatibility between the first layer and the second layer and theencapsulating material.

Each intermediate layer may be made from a standard encapsulatingmaterial for example be a rubber or elastomer such as ethylene vinylacetate (EVA), a polyolefin, silicone, a thermoplastic polyurethane andpolyvinyl butyral. It may also be made from a hot- or cold-cure (one- ortwo-component) liquid resin such as a liquid acrylic, silicone orpolyurethane resin.

Nonlimitingly and by way of example:

-   -   For the first intermediate layer, it may be a question of the        association of one or more EVA films having a total thickness        comprised between 200 μm and 1600 μm;    -   For the second intermediate layer, it may be a question of one        or more films made of TPU having a total thickness comprised        between 200 μm and 1500 μm;

The first intermediate layer 204 may have deformability properties witha view to giving the slab a certain damping coefficient. In this case,this layer will have a dual compatibility and damping function. It willalso allow the space between the light-emitting diodes Ds to be filled.

Each intermediate layer may have a stiffness defined by a Young'smodulus at room temperature lower than or equal to 100 MPa.

Each intermediate layer may have a thickness comprised between 0.01 mmand 1 mm.

Adhesive Layer of the Slab

The structure may comprise an adhesive layer 205 located on the backside of the slab and making contact with the second layer 203 andallowing the slab to be adhesively bonded to the surface 10 of the baselayer 1. This adhesive layer may be formed from an adhesive or from anadhesive polymer, for example a double-sided adhesive or adhesivepolymer.

This adhesive may be adhesive allowing the slab to adhere to the baselayer 1. This adhesive may be based on an MMA (methyl methacrylic) resinthat optionally contains fillers, or be an asphalt, this adhesive beingapplied in doses ranging from 0.5 to 10 kg/m².

The use of an adhesive associated with the composite second layer 203may allow the back face of the slab to be strengthened and the risk ofcrushing of the light-emitting diodes Ds from behind when they aresubjected to substantial mechanical loads to be avoided.

Tread

The tread may cover one or more luminous signaling slabs. For a singleslab, the tread may cover all the tiles of the first layer continuouslyor cover each tile independently, forming discontinuities on the slab 2.

For each slab, the tread 206 covers the first layer 200 in order to givethe slab 2 a certain roughness and adherence properties.

The tread 206 may be composed of a transparent or translucent resin andof irregular texturing elements allowing the slab to be have a certainadherence, even under wet conditions.

The resin may be an acrylic, epoxy or polyurethane resin. The resin maybe deposited with a dose comprised between 10 and 1000 g/m²,advantageously comprised between 30 and 700 g/m², and advantageouslycomprised between 150 and 600 g/m².

The tread optionally contains a colored substance (for example a whiteor yellow highway paint, or even TiO2 pigments, or a yellow paint), towhich transparent or colored texturing elements, for example crushedglass, of a size comprised between 0.01 and 4 mm, better still comprisedbetween 0.1 and 2 mm, and ideally comprised between 0.2 and 1.8 mm, areadded. The dose of this crushed glass is comprised between 10 and 800g/m², better still 30 and 500 g/m², and ideally 50 and 400 g/m². Thecolor may be measured according to either of standards NF EN 1871 and NFEN 1436, and fall within the chromatic perimeter of a marking, forexample standard NF EN 1436+A1 for a white highway marking. The resinsemployed must be transparent or translucent, and adhere well both to thefirst layer of the slabs and to the texturing elements.

The coating may have a degree of transparency making it possible to letpass at least 10% of the light flux generated by the luminous assembly201, and advantageously 50% to 95% of the light flux generated by theluminous assembly 201.

Taking account of the various layers described above, advantageously, aluminous signaling slab 2 may have the following multilayer structure,from the front of the slab to its back:

-   -   A first layer 200 formed from a film of 450 μm thickness, made        from polished and anti-UV-treated polycarbonate;    -   A damping layer 204 formed from one or more EVA films having a        thickness chosen to be between 200 and 1600 μm and from one or        more thermoplastic films made of TPU and of a thickness        comprised between 200 μm and 1500 μm;    -   An encapsulating upper layer 202 a formed from an ionomer having        a stiffness defined by a Young's modulus higher than 300 MPa and        chosen to have a thickness comprised between 100 μm and 500 μm;    -   A luminous assembly 201 composed of light-emitting diodes Ds        joined into ribbons or to a printed circuit board, with an        inter-diode spacing able to range from 0.5 to 30 cm;    -   A second layer 203 formed at the back and composed of a        composite polymer, namely a fabric based on polyethylene        terephthalate, polypropylene or polyepoxide and glass fibers        with a glass-fiber content for example comprised between 20% and        70% by weight and preferably between 50% and 70% by weight,        having a thickness of 1.5 mm and a Young's modulus equal to 12        GPa. As already noted above, this second layer 203 may take the        form of a printed circuit board and directly play the role of        carrier for the light-emitting diodes Ds.    -   A tread 206 such as described above;

According to one particular aspect of the invention, each slab 2 may,depending on its state, have a distinct color. Thus, nonlimitingly, withreference to FIGS. 11A and 11B, the following configurations areachieved:

-   -   When its luminous assembly 201 is turned off, its color may be        dark, i.e. of color close to that of the rest of the highway. In        this case, the back second layer 203 and/or the carrier of the        luminous assembly may be colored this dark color (it may in        particular directly be a question of the printed circuit board        to which the light-emitting diodes are connected). When the slab        is turned off, nothing allows it to be distinguished from the        rest of the highway (FIG. 11A). It is thus a question of        coloring the “back” second layer 203 a suitable color. It will        be possible to deposit paint thereon (for example a black        Griffon paint in a thickness comprised between 0.001 and 1 mm),        or to achieve this by inserting a colored polymer film (for        example a black EVA film), or by pigmenting, for example with        carbon black, either solely the top portions of the layer or it        completely in its bulk. The latter embodiment is particularly        suitable to “back” layers made up of a plurality of plies: only        the upper plies are pigmented, in order to impact a little the        cost or the mechanical properties.    -   When its luminous assembly 201 is turned off, its color may be        light, for example white or yellow. Turning on its luminous        assembly then makes it possible to make it even more visible. In        this case, the back second layer 203 and/or the carrier of the        luminous assembly may be colored in this white or yellow color        (for example using a white Griffon or PU-based paint in a        thickness comprised between 0.001 and 1 mm). When the slab is        turned off, the marking remains visible. This solution allows        the marking to remain visible, even in the case of malfunction        of the slab (FIG. 11B). It is also possible to insert a        translucent film or a white woven made of PET above the luminous        assembly 201 and/or to add pigments (for example TiO2) or paint        to the resin from which the tread is made (for example addition        to the acrylic resin Verniroc of between 0.5 and 50% white        Griffon paint, and better still of between 1 and 30% and ideally        of between 1 and 20%).

Of course, depending on the targeted applications, any other color maybe envisioned, whether this be in the active or inactive state of theluminous signaling slab.

According to another aspect of the invention, the light-emitting diodesmay illuminate in a plurality of distinct colors in order to producedynamic notifications on a highway. Nonlimitingly, it may be a questionof speed-limit indications (which are for example modified depending onweather conditions), indications of parking spaces for deliveries (redat certain times of day and green the rest of the time), indications ofchevron or zigzag type for bus stops (change of color depending on thetime that it should be expected to wait) or any other marking.

According to another aspect of the invention, as shown in FIG. 12, oneor more luminous signaling slabs 2 such as described above may bepositioned on the surface 10 of a base layer 1 in order to form acrossable zone. Said slabs may form any type of marking or messageconventionally present in a crossable zone, in particular:

-   -   Marking forming a continuous or discontinuous line on a road;    -   Pedestrian crossing;    -   Chevrons delineating a stopping place, for example for taxis or        buses;    -   Edge marking signaling a dangerous zone;    -   Speed indication on the highway;    -   Marking for signaling the need to slow down, a danger;    -   Guiding marking;    -   Precise indication of the time to expect the next bus or of the        time that should be expected to wait;    -   Indications of an informational, cultural or marketing nature;

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate a few examples of markings that it ispossible to produce using one or more luminous signaling slabs accordingto the invention. In FIG. 13A, the luminous marking 30 consists of anindication of a speed limit to be respected, indicating that this lanemay be driven on at the indicated speed. In FIG. 13B, the luminousmarking 31 consists of an indication of a danger.

One or more luminous signaling slabs will possibly be controlledsequentially in order to create a chaser effect or a variable-brightnesseffect.

The luminous signaling slab 2 thus has a certain number of advantages,among which:

-   -   A very small thickness, able to be smaller than 10 mm;    -   A high mechanical strength in order to withstand any mechanical        load, in particular the passage of automobiles or trucks;    -   A high degree of flexibility, allowing it to accommodate        imperfections in the surface of the base layer 1;    -   A high lighting level, making it possible to ensure effective        signaling in any situation;    -   An enhanced resistance to bad weather by virtue of a suitable        encapsulation of the electronic circuits;    -   By virtue of its small thickness, an installation that is        facilitated, even on an existing highway;

Nonlimitingly and more precisely, each signaling zone ZS of thesignaling system of the invention may thus be produced from one or moreluminous signaling slabs such as described above with reference to FIGS.9 to 12. Such luminous signaling slabs may thus be positioned adjacentlyand contiguously in order to form the external surface of the signalingzone ZS and to thus form each signaling strip of the system, for exampleof a crosswalk system. All the technical features of the luminoussignaling slabs described above with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12 aretransposable, without modification, to a use in the crosswalk systemdescribed with reference to FIGS. 2 to 8C.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A signaling system, comprising a crossablezone intended to be positioned on a highway and comprising a signalingmarking forming a plurality of signaling strips, wherein said crossablezone comprises a plurality of photovoltaic zones comprising photovoltaiccells that capture light energy and convert the light energy intoelectrical energy, wherein said crossable zone comprises a plurality ofsignaling zones of non-zero areas to form said plurality of signalingstrips, wherein each signaling zone incorporates electrical lighting,wherein said system further comprises a control system configured tocontrol said electrical lighting and a storage unit that is configuredto store the electrical energy generated by each photovoltaic zone andconnected to said electrical lighting to supply said electrical lightingwith electrical energy, wherein two signaling zones are always separatedby one photovoltaic zone.
 2. The system as claimed in claim 1, whereineach photovoltaic zone comprises a slab and each signaling zonecomprises a luminous signaling slab, wherein slabs forming saidphotovoltaic zones and the signaling zones are positioned adjacently andcontiguously in order to form a functional layer throughout saidcrossable zone.
 3. The system as claimed in claim 2, wherein said atleast one slab forming each photovoltaic zone and said at least one slabforming each signaling zone have an identical thickness.
 4. The systemas claimed in claim 2, wherein the luminous signaling slab is ofintegral construction and has a structure made up of a plurality ofsuperposed layers that are fastened to one another, wherein saidstructure comprises a transparent or translucent first layer forming afront face of said slab, a luminous assembly that comprises a pluralityof light-emitting diodes that are electrically connected to one another,an encapsulating assembly that encapsulates said plurality oflight-emitting diodes and a second layer that forms a back face of saidslab and that is composed of a polymer/glass-fiber composite whereinsaid encapsulating assembly is positioned between said first layer andsaid second layer.
 5. The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein thefirst layer of the slab is positioned facing at least one light-emittingdiode.
 6. The system as claimed in claim 4 wherein the first layer ofthe slab is made from a polymer chosen from polycarbonate, polymethylmethacrylate, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene and polyvinylidene fluoride.7. The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first layer of the slabhas a thickness larger than 100 μm.
 8. The system as claimed in claim 4,wherein the second layer of the slab has a stiffness defined by aYoung's modulus at room temperature higher than 1 GPa.
 9. The system asclaimed in claim 4, wherein said second layer of the slab has athickness comprised between 0.3 mm and 3 mm.
 10. The system as claimedin claim 4, wherein the light-emitting diodes are organized in a ribbondeposited on the second layer or on a carrier, or are connected to aprinted circuit board.
 11. The system as claimed in claim 4, whereinsaid second layer is produced in the form of a printed circuit board towhich said light-emitting diodes are connected.
 12. The system asclaimed in claim 4, wherein the encapsulating assembly is made from amaterial having a Young's modulus at room temperature higher than 50MPa.
 13. The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein said encapsulatingassembly has a thickness comprised between 100 μm and 4 mm andadvantageously comprised between 250 μm and 1 mm.
 14. The system asclaimed in claim 4, wherein the multilayer structure comprises at leastone intermediate layer arranged between said first layer and theencapsulating assembly and configured to join said first layer to theencapsulating assembly by adhesive bonding.
 15. The system as claimed inclaim 14, wherein said intermediate layer of the slab is made from oneor more materials chosen from a polyolefin, rubber, elastomer or epoxy.16. The system as claimed in claim 14, wherein the intermediate layer ofthe slab is configured to have a Young's modulus at room temperaturelower than or equal to 100 MPa.
 17. The system as claimed in claim 14,wherein said intermediate layer of the slab has a thickness comprisedbetween 200 μm and 1600 μm.
 18. The system as claimed in claim 4,wherein said structure comprises an adhesive layer located on the backface, making contact with the second layer.
 19. The system as claimed inclaim 4, wherein said structure comprises a tread applied to said firstlayer, said tread being non-opaque and having a textured and irregularsurface.
 20. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said electricallighting comprises light-emitting diodes.
 21. The system as claimed inclaim 20, wherein the light-emitting diodes are arranged to delineatethe area of the strip to which they belong.
 22. The system as claimed inclaim 20, wherein the light-emitting diodes are regularly distributed inorder to illuminate all the signaling zone.
 23. The system as claimed inclaim 1, wherein each photovoltaic zone has a multilayer structure. 24.The system as claimed in claim 23, wherein said multilayer structurecomprises at least one transparent layer making it possible to let alight flux pass and an encapsulating assembly in which said photovoltaiccells are encapsulated.
 25. The system as claimed in claim 1, furthercomprising a control and processing unit comprising at least one inputconnected to a presence detector and at least one output connected tosaid control system for controlling said electrical lighting.
 26. Thesystem as claimed in claim 25, wherein the presence detector comprisesat least one infrared camera.
 27. The system as claimed in claim 25,wherein said presence detector comprises at least one photoelectriccell.
 28. The system as claimed in claim 25, wherein said presencedetector comprises at least one inductive sensor.
 29. The system asclaimed in claim 25, wherein said presence detector comprises at leastone piezoelectric sensor positioned under at least one signaling zone orintegrated into said signaling zone.
 30. The system as claimed in claim25, further comprising manual control member connected to one input ofthe control and processing unit.
 31. The system as claimed in claim 25,further comprising an arrival detector for detecting the arrival of avehicle in proximity to the crossable zone, wherein said arrivaldetector is connected to at least one input of the control andprocessing unit.
 32. The system as claimed in claim 25, furthercomprising a light sensor connected to one input of the control andprocessing unit and in that the control and processing unit comprises amodule for determining the light intensity of each signaling zonedepending on data received from the light sensor.
 33. The system asclaimed in claim 25, wherein a command sequence executed by the controland processing unit depends on data received on each input and isarranged to determine control signals intended for the control system.34. The system as claimed in claim 33, wherein the command sequence isarranged to command the turn on of the signaling zones simultaneously.35. The system as claimed in claim 33, wherein the command sequence isarranged to command the turn on of the signaling zones sequentially, onesignaling zone after another.
 36. The system as claimed in claim 33,wherein the command sequence is arranged to command the turn on of thesignaling zones sequentially, one signaling zone after another, afterdetection of a presence by said presence detector.
 37. The system asclaimed in claim 33, wherein the command sequence is arranged to commandthe turn on of each signaling zone instantaneously or gradually.
 38. Thesystem as claimed in claim 33, wherein the command sequence is arrangedto command a turn on of the signaling zones gradually in one or morecolors taking account of information related to the direction of arrivalof a vehicle and/or the speed of a vehicle.
 39. The system as claimed inclaim 1, further comprising a crosswalk system.
 40. A signaling system,comprising a crossable zone intended to be positioned on a highway andcomprising a signaling marking forming a plurality of signaling strips,wherein said crossable zone comprises a plurality of photovoltaic zonescomprising photovoltaic cells that capture light energy and convert thelight energy into electrical energy, wherein said crossable zonecomprises a plurality of signaling zones of non-zero areas to form saidplurality of signaling strips, wherein each signaling zone incorporateselectrical lighting, wherein said system further comprises a controlsystem configured to control said electrical lighting and a storage unitthat is configured to store the electrical energy generated by eachphotovoltaic zone and connected to said electrical lighting to supplysaid electrical lighting with electrical energy, wherein the signalingsystem further comprises a control and processing unit comprising atleast one input connected to a presence detector and at least one outputconnected to said control system for controlling said electricallighting, and wherein the signaling system further comprises a lightsensor connected to one input of the control and processing unit and inthat the control and processing unit comprises a module for determiningthe light intensity of each signaling zone depending on data receivedfrom the light sensor.